More than 40 Nigerian soldiers have been confirmed dead after militants linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a faction of Boko Haram, launched coordinated attacks on several military bases in Borno State.
The assaults reportedly took place between about 10 pm on Thursday and 3 am on Friday, targeting bases in Konduga, Mainok, Jakana and Marte. Military sources said the attackers arrived in multiple groups and opened heavy fire on the facilities, leading to numerous casualties.
According to the sources, more than 40 bodies of soldiers have been recovered so far, while the fate of several others remains unknown.
Among those killed was Lieutenant Colonel SI Iliyasu, the Commanding Officer of the 222 Battalion, who died alongside some of his men during the attack on the base in Konduga.
During the raids, the insurgents reportedly burned armoured tanks and military vehicles and also carted away a large quantity of ammunition after overrunning some of the bases for hours.
